UKCSA “Excellence in the Use of Cast Stone” Awards 2025

Winners were announced in the UKCSA 34th Anniversary, “Excellence in the Use of Cast Stone” 2025 Awards competition at our Awards and Networking event in May 202.

The UKCSA 2025 Awards were judged in five Categories:

Category 1: Best use of Cast Stone on a Commercial / Retail / Mixed Use Project.
Category 2: Best use of Cast Stone on a Residential / Single Dwelling.
Category 3: Best use of Cast Stone on a Unique / Small Project.
Category 4: Best use of Cast Stone on a Restoration / Refurbishment.
Category 5: Best use of Cast Stone on a Landscape Project.

The Winners were decided by a combination of your votes, and a specially selected judging panel. UKCSA Full Members, their employees and associates, were not allowed to vote, and any votes placed by them were disregarded.

There was also an Associate Award, awarded to one of our Associate Members who has supported a Full Member over the last 2 years, whether directly as part of a project team or as a general supplier.

The Winners are shown below.

The decision of the UK Cast Stone Association (UKCSA) is final in all aspects appertaining to the competition, and by submitting an entry or vote, and by participating in the competition, then you are deemed to have accepted that this is the case.

WINNER: AWARDS CATEGORY 1 – Best use of Cast Stone on a Commercial / Retail / Education / Mixed Use Project.

Project name: Evagreen

UKCSA Fulll Member: Woodside Cast Stone

Building type: Mixed use development

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Wandsworth

Background: Evagreen is a collection of 17 studios, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom homes plus a commercial space in Wandsworth, crafted with the planet in mind. Discover a celebration of tactile materials, space is drenched in natural light and highly efficient, renewable heating system. A development that feels good and does good.

Woodside Cast Stone, in collaboration with Artform Group and MCC, a UKCSA Association member, the project pulled together a palette of smooth precast Portland caststone paired with tonal glazed bricks.

A showcase of the cast stone used in this project

HIGHLY COMMENDED: AWARDS CATEGORY 1 – Best use of Cast Stone on a Commercial / Retail / Education / Mixed Use Project.

Awards Category 1 – Commercial / Retail / Education / Mixed use Project – Entry No. 5

Project name: Riddel Hall

UKCSA Full Member: Craftstone

Building type: Commercial

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Belfast

Background: Queen’s management school has undertaken an exciting expansion that will establish a benchmark of global excellence for one of the top business schools in the UK and Ireland on the Riddel Hall campus.

A new 6000 square metre innovative building adjacent to listed red brick Riddel Hall will become the base for a vibrant student and staff community, providing an enhanced social and educational experience.

CraftStone we’re delighted to be involved in the refurbishment project for our client Queens University Belfast, working with Todd Architects and Felix O’Hare & Co Ltd. CraftStone supplied all the red cast stone in the form of columns, panels, bands, string courses and coping. Used principally to delineate entrance colonnades at the upper and lower entrances.

WINNER: AWARDS CATEGORY 2 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Residential Project/Single Dwelling.

Awards Category 2 – Best Residential/Single Dwelling – Entry No. 4

Project name: Ascot Private Residence

UKCSA Full Member: Craftstone

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Ascot, UK

Background: We were proud to contribute to this private estate located in Ascot, a stunning example of large-scale classical design.

Craftstone expertise brought this vision to life with our bespoke cast stone wet-cast and GRC: Intricately designed Portico, string courses, copings and ornate window and door surrounds complete with stunning canopies and pediments.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: AWARDS CATEGORY 2 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Residential Project/Single Dwelling.

Awards Category 2 – Best Residential/Single Dwelling – Entry No. 3

Project name: 204 Norsey Road

UKCSA Full Member: Haddonstone

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Billericay, Essex

Background: 204 Norsey Road is a refined private residence located in the picturesque town of Billericay, Essex. This new build project was led by a collaboration between Arcady Architects Limited, Townley Masonry, and Woodstone Homes, resulting in the creation of an elegant family home.

Haddonstone cast stonework, crafted from high quality wet cast limestone in a refined Portland colour, was central to the aesthetic appeal of the property. This material was chosen for its durability, natural beauty, and ease of maintenance. Key components supplied for the project included columns, a portico, window and door surrounds, gate piers, balustrade, copings, and steps. Each element was carefully designed and manufactured to not only enhance the building’s visual impact but also meet the rigorous standards in structural performance and safety.

A particularly charming aspect of the project was the feature staircase leading from the garden to the pool area. The staircase was designed to create a visually stunning focal point while also adhering to building regulations. It was surrounded by a balustrade, with bespoke under-coping to achieve the correct height for compliance. The team also created customer radius items, including step risers, which were essential for the staircases smooth flow and function.

The collaboration between all contributors ensured that the stonework was intricately detailed, adding to the properties grandeur. The bespoke components were manufactured with precision and care, ensuring the final product met both the architectural vision and the technical requirements.

The project successfully combined architectural elegance with practical design, creating the home that will stand the test of time.

The project was completed in late 2024.

WINNER: AWARDS CATEGORY 3 – Best Use of Cast Stone in a Unique/Small Project.

Awards Category 3 – Best Unique/Small Project – Entry No. 2

Project name: Manor House Entrance Hall Extension

UKCSA Full Member: Thorverton Stone

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: UK

Background: Thorverton Stone created the client’s vision of a feature entrance door and window surround replicating the detail of the existing house, showing stone internally and incorporating an energy efficient thermal brake. It was the wish of the client to make this the centrepiece of an impressive residence and therefore needed to have the wow factor and be meticulously finished.

The design challenges included:

Matching the new internal and external stone profile details to the existing window surrounds. This was especially important into the apex, where accuracy it was paramount to achieve the correct visual result and measurements were relative to the final positions of stone pieces around steels that were not yet fitted.

Shaping the stone around the engineer designed steel structure partially erected previously, leaving no margin for measuring or making inaccuracy. There are also many other chamfers and details to match long size of the surround, as can be seen in the pictures.

Incorporating fixings, structural reinforcement and thermal insulation.

Documentation and assembly support for the builder, who was not familiar with the use of cast stone.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: AWARDS CATEGORY 3 – Best Use of Cast Stone in a Unique/Small Project.

Awards Category 3 – Best Unique/Small Project – Entry No. 1

Project name: Bespoke House Name Plaque

UKCSA Full Member: Haddonstone

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Hetfield Heath, Essex

Background: For this private residential project, our client sought a bespoke house name plaque that would reflect both elegance and individuality. The original brief was for a leaf themed plaque, and initial discussions led to a series of preliminary design ideas. Initially considering an engraved plaque, it quickly became clear that a more striking 3D design would offer the desired impact.

The design process evolved as our client and the Haddonstone team decided between 2 leaf types- acanthus, which would complement the acanthus finials already supplied for the property, or an oak leaf. Our in-house sculptor expertly crafted models of both options using modelling clay, for our client’s approval. Our client chose the oak leaf design, complete with acorn detailing. Once the design was finalised a detailed model of the plaque was then produced.

After reviewing the model, the team worked together on a mock up of the house name, ensuring that the chosen font perfectly complemented the overall design. Once all elements were approved, the plaque was cast in a classic Portland colour using our wet cast material.

The finished house name plaque, with its bespoke 3D leaf detailing, added a sophisticated touch to the residents, combining craftsmanship with a modern design approach. The project successfully achieved a striking, personalised feature that enhance the homes exterior while reflecting the client’s unique taste.

The project completed in December 2024.

WINNER: AWARDS CATEGORY 4 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Restoration/Refurbishment Project.

Awards Category 4 – Best Restoration/Refurbishment Project – Entry No. 2

Project name: St George’s Church

UKCSA Full Member: Craftstone

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Brentford

Background: A spectacular modern apartment development finished to an exceptional standard in one of Brentford’s most exciting new gated developments.

St George’s church is one of Brentford’s most exciting new gated developments, comprising 20 stylish apartments within an elegant church building in a popular waterfront location. This charming conversion has maintained many of the churches original features while incorporating modern facilities.

The project featured Craftstone’s reconstituted Buff sandstone (wet cast) string courses, copings and large window surrounds. Craftstone was approached by the architect to help with the complex design of introducing new cast stone features into this refurbishment project.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: AWARDS CATEGORY 4 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Restoration/Refurbishment Project.

Awards Category 4 – Best Restoration/Refurbishment Project – Entry No. 3

Project name: EMD Soho Theatre

UKCSA Full Member: Haddonstone

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Walthamstow, London

Background: The restoration of the historic Granada cinema on hoe St, Walthamstow, has transformed the building into Soho Theatre Walthamstow, a vibrant 960 seat live performance venue. The £30 million investment led by Waltham Forest council, revived the grade 2 listed building, returning it to its former glory whilst introducing modern cultural features. The restoration forms part of the council’s London borough of culture 2019 legacy, aiming to place culture at the heart of the community.

Haddonstone focused on the use of cast stone, specifically wetcast limestone, to preserve and restore key architectural features. We supplied bespoke string courses, cornices, and coping to the Dutch Gable of the building. A new motif, designed collaboratively by Simon and our team, was created to reflect the original scroll detail of the Gable. All of the stonework was crafted from wet cast limestone and in Portland colour, ensuring a seamless blend of new and historic materials.

The building’s restoration was output process, aiming to maintain the Spanish-Arabic architectural style while incorporating modern touches. Cast stone played a critical role in this balance, with our wet cast limestone material chosen for its durability and ability to replicate intricate detailing, ensuring the integrity of the building’s aesthetic. The stonework was essential in restoring both the historic facade and the structural features, giving the venue its new life while respecting its past.

Once completed, Soho theatre Walthamstow will offer a variety of life performances, including comedy, theatre, and music, along with a host of community focused events. The venue will also feature 4 bars, a restaurant, and studio spaces, enriching the local communities cultural landscape. The collaboration with Soho theatre ensures the space will serve as a hub for both local residents and visitors, offering a wide-ranging programme of events and outreach activities.

This restoration project was not without its challenges. The need to preserve historical accuracy while adapting the building for modern use requires careful consideration and collaboration. The use of cast stone was integral in overcoming these challenges, allowing us to replicate the ornate detailing of the original architecture and blend it with new structural elements. The project’s success was a testament to the skilful integration of traditional craftsmanship and modern restoration techniques, ensuring that this beloved heritage landmark will continue to serve the community for many years to come.

The project completed in early 2025 and the new Soho Theatre Walthamstow will open its doors in May 2025.

WINNER: AWARDS CATEGORY 5 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Landscape Project.

Awards Category 5 – Best Landscape Project – Entry No. 1

Project name: Beco Building, Dragonfly Plot 4, Barclays Campus

UKCSA Full Member: Plean Precast

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Glasgow

Background: Originally built in 1878 as a draper’s warehouse and showroom, The Beco evolved over the decades to accommodate a diverse mix of shops, offices, and warehousing. In more recent years, however, the building fell into disrepair and faced demolition. Historic Environment Scotland objected, leading to its preservation and transformation as part of the Barclays Glasgow Campus—a landmark regeneration project in the heart of the city.

The redevelopment included the full refurbishment of the historic structure, the creation of modern office space, and the enhancement of a public realm area at the rear. Landscape Architects OOBE, in collaboration with Stallan Brand, drew inspiration from the natural flow of the sea and sand, shaping the design around the ‘Social Stream’ concept. This vision organically channels movement from the city and river toward the heart of the Barclays site. The landscape geometries reference the campus building grid while incorporating biophilic hexagonal forms to immerse visitors in nature.

As a UKCSA Full Member, Plean Precast worked closely with Associate Member 3D Patterns and Moulds, Main Contractor Graham Construction, and specialist planter supplier Logic Manufactured Bespoke to bring this vision to life. Our team manufactured and supplied approximately 480 cast stone elements, totalling over 73 tonnes. These components—crafted in a bespoke Granite White concrete mix with a light acid-etched finish—include bench units, seating steps, slabs, and copings.

The project presented significant logistical challenges due to tight site constraints, requiring meticulous planning for the delivery and installation of each element in a rigid sequence. Additionally, we provided technical guidance to the groundworks contractor, Deans Civil Engineering, who carried out the installation on behalf of the main contractor, ensuring precision and alignment with the design intent.

The completed Plot 4 landscape offers a dynamic, multifunctional outdoor space. Designed to support informal meetings, pop-up events, café and food stalls, and even DJ performances, it fosters an engaging and adaptable urban environment. The modular furniture integrates greenery at multiple levels and is built to withstand urban use, supporting activities such as skateboarding, roller skating, and parkour.

The result is a vibrant urban oasis—a destination within a dense cityscape, blending heritage with innovation and social interaction. This project has also been shortlisted for the 2025 Pineapple Awards for Public Space, further recognizing its contribution to high-quality placemaking.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: AWARDS CATEGORY 5 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Landscape Project.

Awards Category 4 – Best Landscape Project – Entry No. 3

Project name: Bernish House

UKCSA Full Member: Craftstone

Cast stone material: Wet-cast Cast Stone

Location: Newry

Background: Craftstone was thrilled to contribute to an incredible landscape project in Newry, collaborating with the immensely talented Diarmuid Gavin, an award-winning garden designer.

We were honoured to receive these kind words from him about the project:

As a garden designer, I am always searching for ways to merge functionality with beauty, ensuring that every element of a garden serves both practical and aesthetic purposes. For a private garden project in Newry, Northern Ireland, I envisioned a series of circular concrete-reinforced slabs that would not only provide access across a sloping site but also stand as a striking sculptural centrepiece. This required a level of craftsmanship and precision beyond the ordinary.

Craftstone took on this challenge with remarkable skill, delivering a series of beautifully cast, large-scale circular steps that exceeded all expectations. Their ability to interpret and execute my vision with such accuracy was exceptional. The surfaces of the slabs are stunning, providing a tactile, visually engaging feature that harmonises perfectly with the surrounding perennial planting and pictorial meadow.

By day, these steps define the garden’s structure, offering a bold yet elegant counterpoint to the softness of the planting. By night, underlighting transforms them into floating discs, reinforcing their sculptural quality and enhancing the garden’s atmosphere. Their presence has truly been the making of this project.

WINNER: Associate Award

UKCSA Associate Member: Surrey Stone Solutions

Nominated by UKCSA Full Member Haddonstone; Surrey Stone Solutions were awarded the 2025 associate award for their impeccable work at Hertford House, Ascot.

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WINNER: AWARDS CATEGORY 1 – Best use of Cast Stone on a Commercial / Retail / Education / Mixed Use Project.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: AWARDS CATEGORY 1 – Best use of Cast Stone on a Commercial / Retail / Education / Mixed Use Project.

WINNER: AWARDS CATEGORY 2 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Residential Project/Single Dwelling.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: AWARDS CATEGORY 2 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Residential Project/Single Dwelling.

WINNER: AWARDS CATEGORY 3 – Best Use of Cast Stone in a Unique/Small Project.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: AWARDS CATEGORY 3 – Best Use of Cast Stone in a Unique/Small Project.

WINNER: AWARDS CATEGORY 4 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Restoration/Refurbishment Project.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: AWARDS CATEGORY 4 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Restoration/Refurbishment Project.

WINNER: AWARDS CATEGORY 5 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Landscape Project.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: AWARDS CATEGORY 5 – Best Use of Cast Stone on a Landscape Project.

WINNER: Associate Award

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